Author(s) :

MARIYA MAHMOUD AD RUFAI, NACHAANA’A DAVID ALAHIRA, PhD.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Women’s participation in political leadership is integral to democratic development and the promotion of inclusive governance. In Nigeria, despite constitutional guarantees and international commitments to gender equality, the political space remains largely male-dominated. This article critically examines women’s political participation in Nigeria, with a specific focus on Bauchi State between 2011 and 2019. Drawing entirely from secondary sources, it evaluates the national context of women’s involvement in politics, the local manifestations of gender inequality in Bauchi, and the factors limiting effective female political engagement in the state. The study utilizes a descriptive analytical method, relying on scholarly publications, electoral commission reports, government policy documents, and reports from national and international organizations. Findings reveal that although women constitute nearly half of Nigeria’s population and electorate, they remain severely underrepresented in decision-making positions. In Bauchi State, deeply entrenched socio-cultural norms, religious conservatism, economic disenfranchisement, political party gatekeeping, and institutional weaknesses significantly curtail women’s access to leadership roles. The study argues that while national policies such as the National Gender Policy and international frameworks like CEDAW offer a foundation for progress, implementation at the sub-national level remains superficial or absent. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for enforceable affirmative action policies, gender-sensitive electoral reforms, and the dismantling of systemic barriers within party politics. It recommends enhanced civic education, institutional restructuring, and strategic alliances between state actors and civil society to foster a more inclusive political culture in Bauchi and Nigeria at large.

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